After a cold night in Emerald, we headed off early for Blackdown National Park. The reason we had chosen Emerald was its proximity to the park, as the other, nearer, towns had bad reviews. On passing through Bluff, however, we saw a popular free site at which you could leave your van.
The road was good at first and then winding and finally dirt and corrugated, with some potholes. Cows wander close to the road in some parts.
We took about 2 hours to get there, with roadworks, and began following the loop, starting at Yaddamen Dhina lookout,
but missed a stop at Mook Mook so went on to Gudda Gumoo lookout and gorge walk. This leads 240 steps downward to the falls. As the falls weren’t gushing with water, it was easy to get around the rocks and levels and climb to various spots for a look. Very picturesque, with tall fern walls and rocks of so many colours.
Mook Mook lookout displays a massive panorama and the best thing was the sounds of the birds chirping in this huge expanse.
We really enjoyed the treks and although the loop drive is said to be 1.5 hours long, we spent about 3.5 hours there, doing walks and taking photos and listening to the park, which the Ghungalu people advise.
If you have a compact camping style, then you can camp here at a cost set by National Parks of Queensland, which at the time of writing is $6.50 per person per night.
Take a hat and plenty of water. Wear swimming gear if you intend to get wet and attend to signs.
Safe travels.
Underdown 